How to ride a bike (with pictures)

Riding a bike can be a lot of fun and is a great way to keep fit. However, riding a bicycle presents some dangers, especially when you share the road with other vehicles. To stay safe, it is important to have a bike in good condition and to pay attention to some basic but very important requirements when going out pedaling.

This article is based on countries that drive on the right. If you live in a country where you drive on the left, keep that in mind while reading the instructions.

Steps

Part 1 of 5: Check your bike

Step 1. Check your cycling gear

Before heading out, it's important to make sure your bike is a safe vehicle to hit the road. This is especially important if your bike is not new. Checking your bike means paying attention to the following:

• Air - Are your bicycle wheels inflated?
• Brakes - Are they working well, are they clean?
• Chain - Is it well greased, not binding or rusty?

Step 2. Test the brakes

Ride your bike a bit testing the brakes at different voltages. If they don't work and you're not sure how to fix them, head to the bike shop to get them fixed.

Step 3. Check the wheels

Place the wheel in a bowl of water. If you see any bubbles coming out, it means that you have a puncture and you will have to fix it to be able to ride without problems. Do the same with the other wheel.

Step 4. See if the height of the bike is right for you

This is very simple. All you have to do is sit on your bike and make sure that with the tips of your feet you can touch the ground. Adjust the seat as needed and also the handlebars.

Part 2 of 5: Dress appropriately

Step 1. Wear bright colors, a reflective vest, or position lights

This will make you more visible to other vehicles. You can also place these types of materials on your backpack if you carry one.

Step 2. Wear suitable footwear

Riding a bike with cleats or sandals is never a good idea. Wear shoes that feel comfortable and have a smooth sole so you don't get caught in the chain or pedals. Tie your shoelaces.

Step 3. Wear pants or leggings

This way you will not have problems with the chain and the parts of the pants that can get caught or dirty with the chain.

Step 4. Don't tie anything around your waist

It can come off unexpectedly and get tangled in the wheel, throwing you face-first on the asphalt.

Step 5. Wear a helmet

It is always a good idea to wear a helmet when riding a bike. In some places it is not an option but a duty of movement. In any case, even if you don't have to, it is a good idea to wear a helmet and increase your safety. Head injuries are the most common fatal injuries sustained in bicycle accidents.

Step 6. Wear eye protection

Dust, insects, or pebbles can get into your eyes, hindering the vision you need to respond on the street. With cycling glasses you will avoid a bad moment.

Part 3 of 5: Rules of the Road and Direction of Traffic

Obey traffic laws. Even if you are hit by a car, you can be the one who committed the infraction and you will also be the one who will be hurt the most or worse. Follow these basic tips for your safety.

Step 1. Know the rules and use your senses

All cyclists have a duty to know the traffic rules, both those that apply to you as a cyclist, and those that direct the traffic of other vehicles. This includes teaching children what rules to follow (see below). It is important to use common sense while driving, trusting your senses to navigate traffic safely. Anticipate the unexpected to minimize surprises.

Step 2. Drive in the direction of traffic

Driving against traffic is illegal and increases the risk for bicyclists because it increases the danger in corners, since motorists do not look the way that cars are not coming and that you may be driving.

Step 3. Before turning left or right, first look back to make sure you can do it and signal your movement

Learn to turn your head without moving the handlebars. This can be done in an empty parking lot by referencing the lines on the floor. This ability is essential every time you have to deviate from your course, for example when you must dodge a truck stopped against the curb. Just because it is not your fault to change direction, that does not mean that you should not make sure that the movement you will make will not expose you to any danger. If other vehicles are traveling in that other lane, you must tell them that you must change your lane. It is important that you practice looking back because many riders, even some already experienced riders, do not realize how much they deviate when looking back. Looking back to make sure you can change position won't help if your bike moves every time you turn your head to look back.

Step 4. Use clear and obvious signals when turning or changing lanes

Stretching your arm straight and parallel to the floor with the palm open forward is much clearer and attracts more attention than if you do it with the arm flexed and without being obvious. Before removing your hand from the handlebars, make sure there are no stones or holes in front of you, because you will have less maneuverability.

Step 5. Stop when you see “Stop” signs and check the traffic

Step 6. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of listening to music

Some studies indicate that cyclists are up to 10% slower to respond to potential hazards. However, others point out that listening to music might not pose much of a safety risk, as long as you avoid dangerous environments, keep the volume low, and don't wear noise-canceling headphones.

Plus, listening to music can increase your stamina by up to 15%

Step 7. Pick a visible position on the lane

Be aware that many drivers may not notice bicyclists, especially those driving discreetly near the edge of the road. Some drivers become irritated by the presence of bicyclists and seek to make it more difficult for them to drive near them. Do not be angry; if they honk their horn, this means they've noticed you! Express gratitude by smiling, nodding, or waving your hand. Stay calm, stay vigilant, and stay focused. A mirror can help you know if a driver is approaching you from behind. If you look back in a timely manner, nod your head, or even wave your arms to slow down or stop, this can go a long way in letting the driver know that you are aware of their presence and your effect on them. which alone can often stop a potential road rage.

Step 8. Drive at least one and a half meters from parked cars to avoid hitting yourself or being hit by a motorist getting out of their car

Remember that even at 10 mph (15 km / h) you are moving a car every second. If a door suddenly opens in front of you, you may not have enough time to react, let alone stop. And if you turn to avoid it or you are hit with the open door, you will be right in the middle of the street and it could be even worse. Sure, the most important thing is that each motorist looks in the mirror before opening their car door, but if you are looking to stay safe in case one of the motorists you cross is the exception. If you usually drive on streets where there are many car doors opening and closing, it is a matter of time to receive a hit. The door of a car opens almost one meter on average; For that, it is best that you drive at a meter and a half: you will have margin in case you have to maneuver safely. Do not feel more sheltered by riding your bicycle on a street with a bicycle lane. Paint on asphalt means nothing to protect you.

Step 9. Don't try to share your lane with other vehicles that is too narrow to handle on par

Driving too far on the right in lanes less than 4 meters (14 feet) wide is a cause of traffic conflict and consternation. It makes cyclists less visible and invites motorists to try to take advantage of the cyclist's lane, causing an insufficient margin of passing, or that in order to pass you they will have to move part of their vehicle into the adjacent lane. Alert them in time that lane sharing can get dangerous, driving in the middle, or even rolling a little to the left, so they have time and space to plan for an overshoot by changing lanes.

Step 10. Share the path wisely

At intersections, if the lane you are driving in is wide enough to make room for a car to pass, stay to the side and it makes it easier for motorists to pass. But for long trips, position yourself in such a way that the drivers of the cars can see you, to avoid them trying to overtake you dangerously. A rear view mirror can go a long way to help you know when a vehicle is approaching and when it is safe to pull over, usually when you notice that they have slowed down because they saw you, and before irritating them by blocking their path. Never replace looking by turning your head for a rear view mirror if you are moving sideways. There are points that you cannot see from the mirror.

Step 11. Know that most of the risks are ahead of you, especially if the traffic turns and moves in your direction

When approaching an intersection or corner where turning is allowed, regardless of the direction in which you are traveling, position yourself in a visible position and with enough space around. A cautious cyclist positions himself in the correct place at least 30 meters (100 - 200 feet) before reaching a corner.

Step 12. Check for cars to your right when you are about to turn right

Drivers turning right are not looking at pedestrians or bicyclists who are not in the same place where the traffic is coming from. But sometimes they decide to ignore even riders who are properly positioned, which is why a little extra space is important. Look for evidence that you have been seen (eye contact does not count. They may have looked at you without seeing you.) Pay attention to see where they are looking, which way the vehicle's wheels are, and whether they are moving or stopped, etc. It's only a matter of time before one of them underestimates you and tries to get ahead of you. Be prepared not to be surprised if it happens.

Step 13. Moving sideways sometimes requires not only looking back and pointing, but also a kind of “negotiation”

Remember to anticipate your movement with a signal but keep in mind that this gesture does not automatically guarantee you the right to move where it is necessary for you. Any vehicle moving in that direction should give you priority. Therefore, signal your intention and wait for the priority to be given to move. If you need to move crosswise, move carefully and looking behind you, signaling each time you need to change lanes, one at a time, as if you were riding a motorcycle.

Step 14. If you are turning left, use the turn lane

Start preparing ahead of time so you have time to move in plenty of time. If you feel safe doing it, stop, get off your bike, and cross the street like a pedestrian. This way, there will be no way to make a mistake or to be overwhelmed by an inconsiderate driver.

Step 15. If you are going straight, do not use the right turn lane

Other drivers who don't expect you to go straight could hit you when turning. Before intersections, move to the left if you are not in the lane of vehicles following straight ahead.

Step 16. Do not pass in traffic jams on the lane of cars that can turn right

Instead, stand behind them, or to the left. Watch out for motorists passing you on the left, and then try to find a space to pass still cars. More often than not, they are stopping to turn right. That's the signal you need to get to the left and pass them. If you are passing cars that are stopped on the right, be aware of the possibility of a passenger door opening suddenly, especially if it is a taxi. If you are passing on the left with at least one meter away from the cars it is not only safer but it is also faster.

Step 17. Know the speed limits

It is important that as a cyclist you avoid running on the street and respect the speed limits in slow zones (pedestrian crossings or schools, etc.)

Step 18. Know when to ride on the street, when against the curb, and when in the bike lane

Traffic rules change by jurisdiction, but generally the use of the bike lane is mandatory when traffic is heavy and fast. In addition, they allow safe and reasonable handling. Be careful with glass and other elements that may be against the laces, since they are not usually kept in ideal cleaning conditions. Take into account the extra risk of driving on the right as you are much less visible to cars moving from behind you and also to those in front of you. Being too far to the right shortens your panoramic view before possible dangers in front of you, and reduces safety in your relationship with the various dangers facing the roadside. To summarize, decide which way to drive by imagining where you would ride if there were no painted rails on the floor and taking into account the tips we just gave you. Remember that the white stripes indicate fixed positions, and that the best position to ride your bike depends on your situation and conditions; For this reason, we recommend not clinging to the idea that following the bike lane is enough.

Step 19. Do not drive in areas that are marked as a passenger pick-up and drop-off zone

Remember that bicycle lanes are usually between one meter and one and a half meters wide, therefore, even if it is a slightly wider bicycle lane, it is best to avoid riding around there by bicycle. The closest you should be to car doors is on the outside lane line.

Step 20. Bicycle lanes next to the road are usually not formally recognized by law but to ride slowly and calmly they can be useful

Even more than when you are riding on bicycle lanes, keep your full attention every time you come to an intersection with streets and avenues.

Step 21. Avoid riding your bike on the sidewalk

It is not a good idea to do so and in some cities it is even forbidden. A clear exception is when a sidewalk has a signposted space for bicycles, but still be very careful since you circulate alongside pedestrians and other cyclists come in the opposite direction. In general, it is much more fluid and easier to circulate on the street than on the sidewalk, and more comfortable than trying to walk along a path full of obstacles and unforeseen events.

Step 22. Take extra precautions when riding your bike in wet conditions

This is especially true if it's the first rains in some time: oil and grease on the asphalt can cause you to slip on the surface. Therefore do not lean on curves and watch out for stain marks and drain covers. Extreme caution is required in icy conditions, but consider delaying your trip until after noon or canceling it altogether.

Step 23. Cross the railroad lines at right angles

Otherwise, the tires could get caught in the tracks, or if it is wet, the wheels could slip.

Step 24. Always carry identification with you; It can be your identity document or an identification card in a document holder on the bike

Thus, in the event of an emergency, paramedics will know important information about you.

Part 4 of 5: Be Visible and Clear

Follow these tips to avoid going unnoticed:

Step 1. Use proper lights

Motorcycles must drive with their lights on at all times because they are more difficult to see than other vehicles. A bicycle is even smaller. At night, make sure you always have a white light in front of you, and it will never hurt if you add others to be more visible. Do not forget to complement this with clothing, as we already mentioned. The lights are useful both day and night:

• During the day, a headlight is good because it catches the attention of car drivers.
• At night, a headlight on all the time will make you visible in the dark. Avoid being intermittent because not only can you annoy motorists but you will make your movement more difficult.
• Whenever it's dark outside, turn on your lights. This means that as soon as you notice that you begin to have difficulty seeing, even though the sky is not completely dark yet, you should turn them on. Remember that drivers must see you at all times, so turning on your lights sooner rather than later is a smart move.
• Put a red LED light on the back of your bike or your helmet. If this light has intermittent games there is no problem because it does not affect your vision and it also makes you visible in front of other vehicles that come behind and in front of you.

Step 2. Obviously position yourself in your lane

A few inches apart can make a big difference between being seen and not being seen. And even more than being seen, you should think about appearing in their attention zone. Being within the visibility zone is not always enough for them to take the proper precautions in relation to you; You should also put yourself somewhere where they can see you. Position yourself in a place where they should pay attention to you. Occupying a lane as if you were a motorcycle does not guarantee that you will be seen, but at least it makes it less likely that you will go unnoticed, and it gives you a certain advantage without counting greater protection against various dangers. Also, if you have a mirror, driving in the middle of the lane will help you know when they see you and when they don't, since motorists will slow down when they see a cyclist in front of them. If it's on one side, then they probably won't slow down even when you see you, and you'll have to "guess" who has seen you and who hasn't. Of course, you can sometimes pull over to allow fast-moving vehicles to pass you, as being conspicuous in the lane is the best way to get noticed.

Step 3. Be careful at night

Riding a bike at night can be very dangerous. Always circulate on well-lit streets without wells. Pedal slower than you would during the day, as you need more time to react to danger. Lower visibility makes walking at night more dangerous.

Step 4. Use the language of the hands properly

The signals and gestures you make with your arms and hands are essential when turning. They are especially important when you are turning left as they involve going through traffic. If you're turning left, extend your left arm and if you're turning right, extend your right arm.

Step 5. Give appropriate warnings

When you are passing other cyclists or passing people on foot, it is essential that you make them aware of your presence. Not only will you show that you know the traffic laws, but you also reduce the risk of collisions, because pedestrians are unlikely to cross your path. A bell or a shout "Right / Left" are good ways to attract attention.

Step 6. Watch for parked vehicles

When you are driving on streets where cars are parked against the sidewalk, do not forget to leave space for the car door to open without hitting you. Otherwise you could get hurt.

Part 5 of 5: Improve Children's Bike Safety

Step 1. Teach your child or young children to ride a bike in a safe place

Let the kids learn at their own pace and encourage them to feel safe. They will fall a few times, so be prepared to comfort and motivate them to try again. Be patient about all things.

Step 2. Make sure the boys wear helmets all the time

They have to get used to it without even having to think about it.

Step 3. Explain to younger kids that walking fast can hurt themselves badly

Discourage this type of behavior in them and warn them of the risks of not putting both hands on the handlebars when they are going downhill or walking too fast.

Step 4. Find safe places for kids to walk, and safe ways to get to school

As a person responsible for the well-being of your children, it is up to you to take the time to find the best paths for children.

Advice

• If you put a chain cover you will have better chances of keeping the chain in condition. If it breaks, your twins will hurt.
• If you shift gears on your bike, look for the lowest numbers when you are going up and the highest when you are going down. The higher the number, the heavier the tension.
• Always carry a bottle and some snacks with you. Staying hydrated is important because you perspire. Dehydration can lower your blood pressure. Also don't forget some snacks. Exercise can lower your glucose levels quickly and you could have a hypoglycemic attack.
• When you get on your bike, it is safer to approach the curb and get on from the sidewalk.
• Follow all the precautions that you would respect if you were going on foot.
• Some bicycles do not have the brakes on the handlebars, but are operated against the pedal. If you don't know the bike, do your research to be sure.
• Report potholes, slippery surfaces and other hazards to the local authority, with photos (or Google map) of the place.
• Yelling is many times more effective than having a bell on your bike.
• Check to find out if there are no cycling courses near where you live. This way you will learn to drive safely. If you are teaching your children, find out if there are no appropriate courses for them.

  

Warnings

• Freeways can be dangerous unless you drive on the right, and biking on the freeway is generally prohibited.
• Most crashes happen at intersections. When there is a lot of traffic, it is best to stop, even at a traffic light. You never know if a subject will not come from the other side who will not respect the red light or will start quickly without noticing your presence.
• See if there are any dogs nearby. Some dogs are unfamiliar with the bicycle and take it as a threat.
• Some roads are completely unsuitable for biking. Recognize these types of roads to avoid them, and if you must take them, drive along the sidewalk with care for pedestrians.
• Don't drive side by side unless you are over the speed limit. If you don't have a speedometer, do a good intuitive calculation but it is always better to be below than above the limit.
• It will help you react if you know how a car works and how to drive it. This way you can avoid dangerous situations in which a motorist must make an emergency maneuver.
• Keep in mind that the sound of vehicles approaching you can cover up the sound of others approaching.
• If you are riding a bicycle in a cycle lane or along the sidewalk, take into account the speed at which you walk in relation to that of other people who circulate alongside. If you think you are going more than 16 km / h (10 mph) or there are many pedestrians nearby, it is best to go down to the street.
• Know the rules when traveling. Many cities in Europe have bicycle lanes alongside the street. The lane that is closest to the street is reserved for bicycles and the other for pedestrians. Drivers expect you to keep that lane and therefore do not usually contemplate the possibility of you going down to the street. Be careful.
• If you don't feel safe driving on the right side with traffic coming behind you, get on the sidewalk, but always give pedestrians priority. Remember never to drive into traffic.